NOTES for Co2 8:1-15

In all the communities he had founded, Paul collected aid for the brothers of the Jerusalem church. Since the previous year, the Corinthians had wanted to take part in the ministry to the saints (believers) in Jerusalem (4). Now Titus, at Paul’s request, is ready to come to Corinth and give the brothers the opportunity to carry out what they desired. In his letter to them, Paul therefore gives attention to this matter, preparing them properly for the ministry ahead.

In mentioning the churches in Macedonia, which were “willing according to their ability, and beyond their ability” in their ministry to the saints, the Apostle tests the sincerity of the Corinthians’ love by the zeal of the Macedonian brothers. Through the example of those who, amid a great trial of affliction, overflow with joy (2), Paul shows the Corinthians how to make their gift pleasing to God.

His heart rejoices when he sees the zeal of the Macedonians, who gave more than anyone had hoped to receive from them: “they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us by the will of God,” the Apostle writes (5). This complete devotion to God enriched their deep poverty: “if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have” (12).

One cannot help recalling the poor widow who put two small coins into the temple treasury (Mark 12:42-44). Others, who were rich, put in much, but it was the poor woman who gladdened Jesus’ heart because, out of love for God, she put in everything she had—all her livelihood.

Such sincere love and devotion to God make every offering pleasing to Him.